10 Nov
Blog

Logitech Pop Keys Review: A Typewriter for the Modern Age

Logitech Pop Keys in Daydream color scheme.

Logitech Pop Keys put to the test: a modern mechanical keyboard with retro charm

RRP $ 99.00

"The Pop Keys mechanical keyboard from Logitech is a stylish and modern interpretation of the venerable typewriter of yore."

advantages

  • A modernized version of the keys on a typewriter

  • Satisfactory mechanical buttons

  • Easy pairing with up to three devices

  • Logi Bolt support

  • Emoji key

disadvantage

  • No backlight

  • No replacement keycap options at this time

The humble keyboard doesn't often conjure up images of a beautiful work of art. It is often perceived as a more useful device.

Yet the simple keyboard exerts so much creative power – some of the greatest writers of our time, from Mark Twain to Ernest Hemingway and Maya Angelou, wrote their best works on a keyboard (more precisely a typewriter in most cases). . With its latest Pop Keys keyboard, Logitech aims to inspire by combining the retro charm of typewriters with some of the best technology today.

The Logitech Pop Keys is a mechanical keyboard that is highlighted by bright colors, support for modern connectivity, and even emoji keys for modern communication. While not the first keyboard to mimic the old-world charm of typewriters, Logitech's $ 99 Pop Keys is perhaps the most accessible and affordable modern mechanical take on what has become a relic, especially when compared to the QwerkyWriter S for $ 299, the Azio MK retro keyboard for $ 220, or the Rymek Knewkey for $ 164.

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Logitech Pop Keys color palette.

The first thing you'll notice about Logitech's Pop Keys is that they come with a "pop" of color. The keyboards are available in bright colors, including Daydream, which combines mint, yellow and lavender keys, a pink heartbreaker, or the classic Blast, which is available in black and yellow. The designers at Logitech claim that the keyboard was developed for Generation Z users who want more individuality and personality in their workspace.

Although I was initially wary of the stark contrast of the blast unit for review – I'm more used to a floating sea of ​​beige or black keys that are more common on corporate desks – the bumblebee-colored keyboard was playful but not garish like some Gaming keyboards. I found the color fun and the accented keys brightened my desk in unexpected ways. Unfortunately, more professional key colors are not available and I would still like the option for subtle, adult colors for everyday use.

Logitech Pop Keys versus Logitech MX Keys Mini.

My Blast keyboard comes with a yellow keyboard deck that is accented by a sea of ​​circular floating black keys with yellow glyphs. Like the MX Keys Mini, the keyboard is designed to work with both Mac and PC. Some of the modifiers and special keys on the keyboard – Control, Function, Shift, Tab, Caps Lock, Delete, Enter, and more – are gray with yellow glyphs.

While the Qwerkywriter and KnewKey attempt to be a more authentic reproduction of the tools that preceded them, the Pop Key takes a more minimalist, modernized, and deconstructed design into its aesthetic. It comes with more modern buttons – the dictation and microphone mute buttons are one of my favorites along with the new emoji support – and the design is a playful interpretation of the typewriter buttons and not a faithful reproduction of the chrome-framed buttons found on the KnewKey and Qwerkywriter.

Logitech's latest Pop Keys keyboard has dedicated emoji keys.

At 321.2 x 138.47 x 35.4 mm, the Pop Keys keyboard is slightly wider than the MX Keys Mini – you get a similar keyboard layout, but the former comes with an additional column of emoji shortcuts next to the full-size arrow keys compared to the latter's more compressed inverted T layout. The mechanical key switches also make the Pop Keys thicker overall.

Emoji shortcut is the second biggest feature of the Pop Keys that sets this humble keyboard apart from the competition. In addition to standard writing, Logitech is banking on emoji as the future of communication, and the pop buttons come with four pre-installed emoji buttons and four additional buttons in the box that can be swapped out. A fifth emoji button brings up the full emoji menu so you can choose any emoji or character you want.

While the purpose of these new buttons is to help users communicate with emojis, which Logitech claims is the fastest growing language in the world, the buttons can be customized to launch certain emoji characters (even if these characters are not defined by the supplied keycaps). via the downloadable Pop keyboard customization software.

As with the MX Keys Mini, you won't find an extended keyboard layout with a dedicated number pad in the Pop Keys. The more compact size, Logitech claims, makes this keyboard more ergonomic if you don't use spreadsheets or numbers a lot.

The golden escape button.

Our Blast keyboard comes with a metallic, lacquered, copper-colored escape key that enhances the typewriter aesthetic of the keyboard. Purists may complain that the escape key is the lone key in a different color, but the brass-like finish gives it a vintage vibe.

There are function keys in the top row next to the Escape key. These buttons can also be used to switch between device inputs – the Pop buttons can be paired with up to three devices, like Logitech's Premium MX series for work. You'll also find keyboard shortcuts for controlling media playback, a voice dictation button, a screenshot button, and a microphone mute. That final key was a godsend during the pandemic as Zoom calling has become the new normal.

There's a sleek back bar protruding from the back of the keyboard in a design that mimics Logitech's MX Keys and MX Keys Mini. This bar houses the battery compartment; two AAA batteries are required. The company claims that fresh batteries last around three years after typing. A power switch on the right edge of the keyboard helps to conserve the battery when not in use. Personally, I would have loved if the Pop Keys came with internal batteries that could be charged via a USB-C cable, but company executives claimed that Logitech appealed to a different, less tech-savvy audience than those who did use the MX series.

Typing experience

A splash of color with the Logitech Pop Keys

Unlike traditional desktop productivity keyboards, the Pop Keys use mechanical key switches – a design more commonly found on gaming keyboards – for a more responsive and satisfying typing experience. Logitech didn't name the type of switch used on the Pop buttons, but the design and typing feel similar to Cherry MX switches.

This means the keyboard was relatively quiet, especially since it's a mechanical keyboard, and it didn't require as much force as other premium gaming keyboards. And thanks to the concave, circular design of the keycaps, the keys wrap well around the fingertips and are stable, even if you press the keys from the edge of the keycaps rather than from the center.

When we asked about the key travel and actuation force, the company's executives were similarly reluctant and did not provide any information about the pop keys. We found Key Travel to be generous. And the moderate actuation force means you don't have to use too much finger force to move the keys, but simply touching the key while typing doesn't register accidental key presses.

It took me a solid hour to actually type and adjust to the pop keys, and I have found that even if you are experienced with typing or using a mechanical keyboard, some adjustments are required. The main reasons are that the round keys, while eye-pleasing and pleasing to the eye, and the key spacing mean that those typing with more vulnerable wrists and fingers may find fingernails catching the key when the keys are pushed up directly above it or your fingertips can brush adjacent buttons. This problem becomes very evident in those who come from flatter keys on notebook keyboards

Raised keys on the Logitech Pop Keys

While you initially get used to Logitech's button design, this may slow down your typing speed and accuracy, but things will normalize in about an hour.

Compared to the click-clack typing sound of the original Qwerkywriter (not the newest Qwerkywriter S), the Pop Keys make a deeper and more satisfying “thunk” sound when the keys are pressed. I prefer the low tone that the Pop Keys make as I found that less distracting, especially if you are sharing the office space. The auditory comparison is similar to comparing the butterfly key switches on a MacBook Pro from 2016 with the MX Keys from Logitech. Apple's standard laptop keyboard – which has since been upgraded to scissor switches on newer models – had louder, hollow sounds compared to the low-frequency response of the MX Keys and MX Keys Mini.

Looking at the key switches on my HP Omen Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, the Pop Keys definitely feel stiffer and require more actuation force, but it's more satisfying when you're typing a long document or looking to become the next Hemingway. While the keys of the Omen sound hollow and rattle a little when typing quickly, the keys of the pop keys seem more stable.

The only thing missing from the Pop Keys that would have made them even more perfect would be the backlight. Logitech wouldn't have to offer the crazy RGB lighting that's standard on many gaming keyboards, but even a subtle white glow – or lighting that is color-coordinated with the Blast's key colors – would have been nice for night-time typists. The inclusion of backlit keys makes the RK Royal Kludge – a keyboard with similar round, typewriter-inspired keys – an attractive alternative to the Pop Keys.

Although the Pop Keys are not lacking in full backlighting, there are a total of five LED lights on the keyboard. There are three white LEDs, one on each of the pairing buttons to identify which device you have paired with the keyboard, an LED indicator on the caps lock key, and a green LED on the right keyboard deck to indicate that the pop keys are activated are switched on.

Emoji

Logitech Pop Keys comes with special emoji buttons.

In addition to being the fastest growing language, a useful perk of emoji is that the characters also impart more empathy and help you connect with your audience. This is especially important during the global pandemic, where most of our communication is digital and a significant part of our interaction is virtual.

According to a study by Logitech, over 88% of users are likely to feel empathy for someone who uses emojis in their communication, and given the prevalence of emojis in casual and some professional communication, like Slack and Microsoft Teams messages, they are quick to hit Access to these special characters is particularly useful.

Heartbreaker colored Logitech Pop Keys.

To use the emoji buttons, you'll need to download software from Logitech, which is available for Windows and macOS. The keyboard also works with Chrome OS, Android, iPadOS, and iOS devices, but you can't map or use the emoji buttons.

With the software downloaded and installed, Logitech gives you many customization options with the emoji. You can map the emoji to match what is displayed on the button – for example, the smiling face with the heart-eye button shows the same emoji on your screen when pressed – or you can map the button to a different emoji than on the indicated key caps. In the latter case, if you often use the celebration emoji or the fireworks emoji, you can either assign the keycap that shows the smiling face with heart eyes.

The software allows you to universally map the emoji for all apps, or you can use different emoji for different apps. For example, if you use a specific emoji when communicating via WeChat or iMessage, you can assign it to one of the keys when you are in that app, but you can assign the key to another emoji when you are in another app.

Interchangeable emoji buttons and switches on the Logitech Pop Keys.

In addition to emoji, you can map any of the five emoji buttons along with the top row of function keys to perform various tasks. If you're not using an emoji, you can, for example, map one of the emoji buttons to show Mission Control or open Launch Pad on your Mac. A second emoji button can be used for copy and paste, access to the lookup menu, or other functions.

This software defined key mapping really makes the Pop Keys even more customizable and personal, whether you're a Gen Z, typist using emoji, or more of a traditional keyboard user who just wants more keyboard shortcuts.

And since the keyboard comes with a total of eight emoji keycaps – four on the keyboard and four in the box – switching between keycaps is very easy. All you have to do is grab the keycap with your finger and pull up to remove the cap, then push the keycap down on the “+” shaped switch to replace it .

Software to customize the function of the emoji buttons on the Logitech Pop Keys keyboard.

This process can be applied to any key on the keyboard, and Logitech says that in theory you can replace any key on the Pop-Keys because it uses an unnamed, standard switch mechanism. I hadn't tried the mix-and-match philosophy here with the alphanumeric keys, but you can in theory replace the keys here with square keys instead of round keys, although that's the purpose of buying a retro-inspired tool like the Pop Keys. However, company officials warned that this could affect key spacing, key travel, and the fit of each keycap.

And as with the MX Keys series, there are toggle switches for switching between three coupled devices with the function keys F1, F2 and F3. For example, you can easily switch between a MacBook Pro, Windows PC, and iPad Pro if you switch between them frequently for your workflow. The Pop Keys connect to your preferred computing device via Bluetooth, and a Logi Bolt connection dongle is also included if you need a more secure, reliable connection between the keyboard and your PC. To make it easier to carry the dongle, the Pop Keys have a dedicated slot in which the Logi Bolt connection is located when you are not using it.

Logitech Pop Keys in Daydream color scheme.

Logitech also has an accompanying pop mouse that is color-coordinated with the same color options from Blast, Daydream, and Heartbreaker. The Pop Mouse is part of Logitech's Studio series and is similar in design to the company's existing Pebble mouse. It comes with a scroll wheel and a dedicated button that can be customized, like the emoji keyboard keys on the pop keys. With the mouse, you can use a different emoji key, or assign that key to perform another task through Logitech software.

Our opinion

Logitech Pop Keys and Pop Mouse are part of the Logitech Studio Series.

The Pop Keys from Logitech bring a lot of playful mood to stoic desks with their splash of color. While the Pop Keys may have their stylish inspiration from typing tools of yesteryear, the Pop Keys isn't your grandfather's typewriter – this keyboard artfully blends its old world charm with modern technology like strong connectivity options, long battery life, and support for emoji to inspire the next generation of creatives.

are there alternatives

At $ 99 for the Pop Keys and $ 39 for the Pop Mouse, there are plenty of alternatives to these Studio-series peripherals. Some of the most notable competitors for the Pop Keys include other retro-inspired keyboards like the Qwerkywriter S, Rymek KnewKey, and the Azio MK Keyboard. All of these keyboards have similar mechanical switch mechanisms and circular keys that remind them of typewriters, but none offer the same modern day versatility of the pop keys, including dedicated emoji keys, media and function keys that can be customized, and support for Logi Bolt. Another attractive feature of the Pop Keys is that they are between $ 100 and $ 200 less than some of their closest competitors.

How long it will take

Logitech's Pop Keys, like previous typewriters, will last you a very long time. The batteries last for three years, and when you replace them with fresh batteries, they will last much longer. While replaceable batteries aren't as good for the environment as rechargeable internal batteries, you don't have to worry about the batteries holding a charge as the Pop Keys ages. This means that you don't have to throw away an otherwise perfectly usable keyboard after years because the internal battery has exceeded its lifespan, you can simply swap in new batteries and continue with this keyboard. Logitech offers a one-year limited hardware warranty for the Pop Keys in the United States and most parts of Asia, although you get a two-year warranty if you buy the keyboard in Japan and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Should I buy it

Yes, if you rely on or use emojis, the Pop Keys are an invaluable tool for your home or home office. Although designed with teenagers and tweens in mind, the Pop Keys is a fun keyboard that will brighten up any room. Logitech has modernized the typewriter for the modern age.

Editor's recommendations



28 Sep
Blog

Logitech MX Keys Mini Review: Like the Original, But Smaller

Logitech MX Keys Mini looks great in graphite.

Logitech MX Keys Mini reviewed: Honey, I made the keyboard smaller

RRP $ 99.00

"The Logitech MX Keys Mini offers the same great typing experience in a smaller, more ergonomic experience."

advantages

  • Comfortable typing experience

  • Compact and lightweight for on the go

  • Ergonomic

  • Advanced features

  • Sustainable design and packaging

disadvantage

  • Expensive

  • Cannot be used as a wired keyboard

How do you improve a near-perfect keyboard? It's a good problem for Logitech with its MX Keys peripheral, which quickly became a fan-favorite keyboard at retailers like Amazon.

Logitech's solution was to bring a more compact version of its critically acclaimed keyboard in the form of the MX Keys Mini and MX Keys Mini for Mac. Both the standard and compact keyboards have similar layouts, with the one made for the Mac edition containing Apple-specific keys such as the option and command keys. Versions with international keyboard layouts will also be available.

It's not for the serious mechanical keyboard enthusiast, but most others will find a lot in what Logitech did with the MX Keys Mini.

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Logitech MX Keys Mini offers a more compact design.

Smaller doesn't mean tight. Like the regular MX Keys, the MX Keys Mini has full-size keys for easy typing. To shrink the dimensions of the keyboard – the standard version measures 131.63 x 430.2 x 20.5 mm – Logitech removed essentially everything to the right of the Enter key and repositioned the arrow keys in an inverted T layout. This reduces the width of the MX Keys Mini by 134.21 mm to 295.99 mm.

This is equivalent to a size reduction of just over five and a half inches – or 30%. The compact dimensions make the MX Mini more portable, making it easier to slip into a smaller bag when you need a better keyboard for remote typing. The real benefit, however, is that a narrower keyboard makes typing more ergonomic.

Logitech MX Keys versus new MX Keys Mini.

The new size reduces the weight of the keyboard from 810 grams to 506 grams. Much of the weight is due to the solid construction of the keyboard, which has a full metal shell on the top that surrounds the keys in an island style. There's a thin plastic strip that extends from the top of the keyboard, and this area houses the sensors, battery, and circuitry. The other dimensions have also changed slightly, but are largely similar to the original model.

Like the original, the mini edition has individual keys with a circular indentation on the keycap, a design feature that helps with typing. The chiclet key layout looks a lot more modern than the 1990s-style keycaps on mechanical keyboards, and looks like you could have taken them straight off a laptop. The company claims that the dimple on each key adjusts to your fingertips as you type, and automatic backlighting is available for night work too.

The MX Keys Mini is available in three colors – rose, graphite, and light gray – and features white LED-backlit keys. A built-in battery provides up to 10 days of use on a single charge with the backlight on, or up to five months of no-light use, claims Logitech, and it can be charged using the included USB-C cable. The keyboard version that we received for testing is made of graphite and comes with slightly darker gray keycaps and white lettering.

Our model isn't made for Mac, but it also comes with dual keys that support Mac and Windows – for example, the Apple Option key can be used to activate the Start menu on Windows, while the Command key can also serve as the Alt key on the Microsoft operating system. If you're a Mac user looking to take over the MX Keys Mini, the major downside is that you won't find a Touch ID fingerprint scanner on this third party keyboard.

As part of the company's commitment to sustainability, the MX Keys Mini is made with up to 30% recycled plastic, however the amount of recycled plastic in the lighter shades will be far less than the darker graphite color variant. That's because, according to the company, it's way too difficult to extract and recycle plastics from existing keyboards – which are often made from darker materials – and convert them to lighter colors like those found on the pink and light gray keyboard .

Typing and functions

Logitech MX Keys Mini side profile.

Many of the key functions of the larger MX Keys are carried over to the MX Keys Mini, including the ability to pair and use the keyboard with up to three different Bluetooth devices. The keyboard has alternate keys in the row of functions for switching between devices. Logitech claims the keyboard will work on a wide range of devices including Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, iOS, and iPadOS.

The company will also release a special Enterprise version that uses a more secure and proprietary Logi Bolt connection. This B2B model requires a special USB-A dongle, while the consumer model that you can find in many retail stores works with Bluetooth.

1.8 mm travel is sufficient for long sessions with comfortable typing.

Logitech didn't provide any key travel and pitch specifications for the MX Keys Mini, but they feel no different than the full-size original, advertised as 1.8mm of key travel. This makes the key travel comparable to what you'd find on some larger professional laptops and gaming laptops. Many smaller laptops in the 13-inch range have keys with 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm of travel, while some larger 15-inch notebooks have keyboards with 1.5 to 1.8 mm of travel. In any case, 1.8 mm of travel is sufficient for long sessions with comfortable typing.

For comparison, Apple's newest Magic Keyboard on the MacBook Pro has a 1mm shorter key travel that uses a new scissor switch implementation, while the company's older butterfly keys on some older Intel-model laptops only provided 0.7mm of key travel.

The MX Keys Mini feels like it was made for those who love laptop keyboards but prefer to work at their desks. While my MacBook Pro keyboard feels different when typing – Apple's keys are less stiff and louder – the similarly sized Logitech offers the same ergonomic experience. When I paired the Logitech MX Keys Mini with my Apple Mac Mini on my desk, it really felt like I was working on a mobile workstation.

Logitech MX Keys Mini can be connected to up to three devices.

If you are used to working on a laptop without a built-in numeric keypad, a similar arrangement in an external keyboard makes it easier to customize and helps with ergonomics if you have the right desk setup. An external monitor would be ideal, but even if you choose not to connect a second monitor, putting your laptop on a stand helps as you won't stretch your neck to look at your laptop's screen.

And when you add the right external keyboard to the setup, you get an even more comfortable PC environment with a larger key travel. Moving the keyboard closer to your body can also reduce arm fatigue.

Logitech MX Keys Mini comes with a dedicated emoji key.

And to accommodate more modern communication modes, the MX Keys are also equipped with some special keys that make it easier to get your message across. There's an emoji button that brings up an emoji picker so you can choose the best emoticon to use, for example, to express yourself in an email, and a new dictation button helps you control your operating system's voice-to-text engine to type with your voice.

power

If you consistently work on two or three different devices as part of your workflow, the MX Keys Mini is for you. Pairing multiple devices allows you to connect up to three devices without the need for a KVM switch and also saves desk space as you don't need a separate keyboard for your desktop and a second tablet, like an iPad Pro or SurfacePro 8.

Like its bigger brother, the MX Keys Mini offers a very comfortable typing experience with its full-size keys. Compared to the butterfly key switches on my aging MacBook Pro 13 inch, the keys of the MX Keys Mini are deeper, stiffer (since they require more actuation force) and a little quieter. A quieter keyboard could be useful if you share a small apartment with someone else and prefer to work at night.

The backlight turns on automatically when your hands approach the keyboard.

LED-backlit keys on a wireless keyboard aren't a new technology, but Logitech has made some smart upgrades to make this popular staple even better. Like the backlit keyboard on many modern laptops, the backlight can be adjusted manually – there are six levels of brightness, and you can also turn it off – or automatically based on the ambient light in the room.

Thanks to magnetic sensors, the backlight can also turn on automatically when your hands approach the keyboard. This feature may sound trivial, but it is extremely useful. On other keyboard models, the backlight turns off after a period of inactivity to save battery life. To turn the backlight back on, you need to tap any key on the keyboard randomly to wake it up.

If you press a non-character key, such as the Shift key or the Ctrl key, everything is fine. However, if you tap any of the character keys like a letter, you are accidentally adding gibberish to your open document and will have to delete any additions you made. Distorting the MX Keys Mini's magnetic field to wake up a backlight is an ingenious solution to a problem many didn't even know they had until they started using the Logitech keyboard.

Logitech MX Keys Mini supports Windows and Macs.

Since the keyboard has full-size keys, it didn't take me any time to get used to the keyboard and was able to type accurately and quickly right out of the box. My typing speed and accuracy on this model rivaled that of keyboards on Apple, Lenovos, and HP laptops, and I had no problems with typing accuracy. The deeper key travel feels more similar on Windows laptops than it does on Mac laptops.

As someone who mainly works on a laptop, the biggest criticism of the MX Keys Mini is that the keys feel a little too stiff. While key travel is generous, the Logitech keyboard's keys require greater actuation force before they move. The greater force required to operate it could result in increased finger fatigue, at least until you get used to the keyboard. It took me about a day to acclimate and once I did it, the MX Keys Mini delivered one of the better typing experiences with responsive switches outside of a mechanical keyboard.

Logitech did not provide precise actuation force measurements for the Mini, but in general the typing experience is very similar to that of the larger MX Keys. If you are experienced with the MX Keys you will feel right at home here. Compared to Apple's external Magic Keyboard that comes with the iMac, the MX Keys feel a little quieter when typing and require a little more force to operate.

Mac users who choose this keyboard will have to forego Touch ID support, a feature supported by some of Apple's newer external keyboards. However, this is not limited to Logitech as no third-party Mac keyboards currently support fingerprint recognition on Mac. Since most Windows systems rely on face scanning with Windows Hello, this may be less of a concern for PC owners.

Logitech MX Keys Mini charges via USB-C.

The MX Keys Mini comes with a single USB-C to USB-A cable for charging and can be connected to your PC or Mac via Bluetooth. The Mac edition comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable instead. tThe keyboard's USB-C port is used for charging only and you cannot connect it to your PC to use it as a wired keyboard. You can still charge the battery while using it via Bluetooth.

While I didn't experience any lag or latency from the wireless connection, if you're concerned about Bluetooth security or around, you can also opt for the MX Keys Mini for Business model, which works with Logitech's proprietary Bolt standard Make input delays. Logi Bolt, as it's called, also works with Bluetooth if you don't take the adapter with you when you travel.

In my weeklong review of the MX Keys Mini – this test was done entirely with the MX Keys Mini connected to a MacBook Pro via Bluetooth – I was unable to discharge the battery. During the day the backlight was generally turned off to save power and at night I let the keyboard automatically adjust the backlight to the available ambient lighting.

Despite the added convenience of a narrow keyboard, the MX Keys Mini is not designed for ergonomics.

Compared to a wider, full-size keyboard with a number pad, the MX Keys Mini's narrower keyboard makes working on long documents more convenient, although it may not be the ideal solution for a finance or accounting job. If you work with a lot of numbers or live in Excel spreadsheets, you're better off using a keyboard with a dedicated number pad like the full-size MX keys.

The Logitech team informed me that the narrower dimension was designed for ergonomics. It's supposed to reduce muscle fatigue by reducing your arms spread as widely and resulting in a more natural posture at the desk. But despite the added convenience of a slim keyboard, this keyboard is not designed for the same ergonomics as the split-design keyboard.

Another advanced software-based feature of the MX Keys and MX Keys Mini is called Flow. For Flow you need an MX series mouse, such as the MX Master 3 or MX Master Anywhere. Once these devices are paired on multiple computers, you can essentially copy and paste text, files, and documents between Mac and Windows devices. This helps simplify your workflow so that you don't have to rely on USB drives or cloud storage to access a document that is on another paired device. In practice, it works really well, adding to the support for pairing multiple devices.

Our opinion

Logitech doesn't shy away from experimenting with a proven formula to improve its existing products. By removing its popular MX keys while keeping the keys at full size, the company has made arguably the best keyboards on the market even better by making it more portable and focusing on ergonomics.

are there alternatives

At $ 99, the Logitech MX Keys Mini will cost the same as the full version when shipped next month. So you're making a compromise between ergonomics and a dedicated number pad for entering data in spreadsheets. There are plenty of other wireless and wired keyboards competing in the same place as the Logitech MX Keys series, but keep in mind that you'll be sacrificing some of the more advanced features – deep key travel, flow, and sophisticated backlighting – if you choose for cheaper models.

Some brand competitors include Apple's Magic Keyboard, which sells for the same price, or the new Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, which adds a $ 50 premium. There's also Microsoft's Premium Designer Compact Keyboard, which costs $ 50 less than what Logitech has to offer.

How long it will take?

The MX Keys Mini is covered by Logitech's one-year limited hardware warranty, while the MX Keys Mini for Business with Logi Bolt support has an additional year of support.

A premium keyboard like the MX Keys Mini should last for many years. Unlike a laptop, there aren't many innovations in the keyboard area that will warrant an upgrade to a newer model anytime soon, so this device should last as long as the rechargeable battery can be charged.

Should I buy it?

Although expensive as a Bluetooth accessory, the MX Keys Mini is a solid investment that will help you stay productive and keep your body happy thanks to its thoughtful ergonomic design. It offers the great typing experience that the original MX Keys offered in a more compact package.

Editor's recommendations



14 Sep
Blog

Logitech G435 Gaming Headset Review: Too Cheap to Be Good

The Logitech G435 gaming headset on a stand.

Logitech G435 gaming headset

RRP $ 80.00

"The Logitech G435 is a wireless gaming headset that sacrifices too much to be affordable."

advantages

  • Wireless Lightspeed connection with Bluetooth support

  • Easy

  • Comfortable for long gaming sessions

  • Payable

disadvantage

  • Feels cheap

  • Disappointing sound quality

  • Not a boom mic

When looking for the best gaming headset, it's easy to fall into the trap of wanting wireless connectivity. With one less cord, the workspace is really tidy, and it's nice to be able to get up without taking off the headset.

However, the feature significantly increases the price due to the need for a wireless radio, electronics, and battery. However, this is not the case with the Logitech G435 Lightspeed. You won't find a cheaper wireless gaming headset – at least not one from a well-known brand.

Unfortunately, the G435 is cutting too many corners to reach this price point, leaving you with a headset that doesn't feel like it's worth $ 80.

draft

Thin headband of the G435 gaming headset from Logitech.Niels Broekhuijsen / Digital Trends

When it comes to design, the first thing you notice about the G435 is that it is extremely light. It only weighs 165 grams, which is absolutely nothing for headsets, especially wireless ones. For comparison: Razer's Barracuda X weighs 250 grams, which is considered light, and something high-end like Corsair's Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT weighs 382 grams, even lighter than the 240-gram Logitech G335.

So yes, the G435 is very light indeed. But the quality of workmanship is a problem with a headset for this lamp. There is no getting around it: The G435 feels thin and cheap. The plastic parts are all thin, there are no beautiful materials and the headband looks full, but is just a plastic frame with a fabric cover.

I feel like if I held the headband in my fist it would just be strong pressure to snap. This is not good. Logitech only markets the light weight as a benefit, but it feels like it was a decision to cut costs, and it shows. The heavier Logitech G533 looks and feels higher quality and can be picked up at a discount for less than the newer G435.

However, I cannot deny the advantages of an ultra-light headset. The light weight and soft fabric ear cups of the G435 make it one of the most comfortable headsets I've ever worn. It's also surprisingly comfortable to rest on your neck.

The ear cups don't pivot to lie flat on your chest, but since there's no protruding microphone and it's surprisingly small, your chin won't collide as much when you turn your head.

characteristics

Beamforming microphone on Logitech's G435 headset.

When it comes to features, it's no surprise that the G435 isn't very featured. But that doesn't mean it's shabby. The headset supports various spatial audio codecs including Dolby Atmos, has an optional volume cap of 85 decibels to protect your ears, and the dual beamforming microphones work together to reduce background noise.

And yes, that means the G435 doesn't have a boom mic, as is common with gaming headsets. Boom microphones provide sharper, clearer audio quality compared to the smartphone-grade quality that beamforming microphones offer. It's a surprise to see Logitech leave it out here as even the G335 includes one.

The G435 is charged via the USB-C port, and a fully charged battery has a lifespan of 18 hours. Controls are just as easy: there is an on / off button, volume control and a microphone / mute button.

Controls of the G435 gaming headset.Niels Broekhuijsen / Digital Trends

The primary connection method for the G435 is via the included 2.4 GHz Lightspeed dongle, but you can also use it with Bluetooth devices in a low-latency mode – this combination does it not only with PCs, but with PlayStation devices and mobile phones can be used.

That's pretty cute considering the vast majority of gaming headsets don't support Bluetooth and you often have to jump on something like the SteelSeries Actis 9, which costs a whopping $ 200.

Sound quality

Logitech G435 gaming headset ear pads.

The actual test of the headset naturally depends on the sound quality. The G435 is still packed with 40mm drivers, which sounds promising, but in practice I wouldn't expect any acoustic miracles from the G435. There's a lot of bass and some detail at the top, but the headset lacks something in the middle section – I'd describe the sound profile as hollow.

The sound lacks the "fullness" that makes you turn up the volume for the satisfaction you want. So it is good that it is equipped with a volume limiter.

But then again, this is a $ 80 wireless headset. Great sound quality was never the primary goal, and the acoustics are good enough for casual gaming. However, if you are a competitive gamer you may want to look for something a little more revealing sound so you don't miss your opponents' steps as they sneak up on you.

Our opinion

The Logitech G435 Lightspeed has a lot to offer, such as light weight, comfort and Bluetooth support. However, unless you absolutely need a wireless headset for under $ 80, I'd stay away from that and spend the same budget on a wired pair.

With the need to squeeze a wireless radio, control module, and battery into the tight budget, Logitech had to make concessions on build quality and sound quality. They take off too much of the overall experience, and while it's wireless, the G435 doesn't feel like $ 80 headphones.

Are there alternatives?

The next alternative is Razer's recently launched Barracuda X gaming headset, which costs $ 20 more. While it doesn't support Bluetooth, it offers better processing and sound quality, plus a proper microphone, and looks better for outside the home. It's more expensive, but well worth the extra effort.

The Logitech G533 is also a good choice. Although it originally sold for $ 150, you can currently pick it up at Retailers for only $ 74.

If you're shopping wired on the same budget, the entry-level HyperX Cloud II headset offers much better build quality and sound quality.

How long it will take?

Although the G435 should last two to three years if carefully cared for, its fragile construction is an accident or a rage that is far from snapping into place.

Should I buy it?

If you really need a $ 80 headset, don't buy a wireless headset. Too much of the budget goes into the wireless radio, electronics, and battery, and with that budget it is better to buy a wired headset.

Editor's recommendations



21 Aug
Blog

Logitech G915 TKL Review: The Gaming Magic Keyboard

logitech g915 lightspeed tkl review presented

Logitech G915 Lightspeed TKL long-term test: The Magic Keyboard for gaming

RRP $ 230.00

"The Logitech G915 TKL is an expensive gaming keyboard that easily deserves its price."

advantages

  • Excellent typing experience

  • Bright RGB lighting

  • Fast wireless technology

  • Long battery life

  • Error-free, useful software

disadvantage

  • Expensive

  • Incompatible with most mechanical keyboard accessories

Logitech's G915 is for gamers who want the aesthetics of Apple's Magic Keyboard with the feel of a mechanical switch (plus a good dose of RGB). I've searched far and wide for a keyboard that gets the look and feel to the point, and after browsing dozens of low-profile options, I turned to Logitech's latest G915 TKL.

It's not as sturdy as a full-size board and, like many Logitech peripherals, the price is too high. However, the combination of Lightspeed wireless technology, rather unique low-profile switches, and rock-solid build quality makes the G915 feel like it deserves its award.

It's a keyboard that manages games and typing well, and it's a show stopper in the visual department. Although it took me a while to get used to Logitech's flat keycaps and switches, I loved the balance the G915 offers – and after months of non-stop use, I never return to a full keyboard at any point Size back soon.

draft

Logitech G915 TKL on an orange background. Jacob Roach / Digital Trends

The Logitech G915 is available in two versions: Either full-size or a Tenkeyless (TKL) design. I got my hands on the TKL version that omits the number pad that normally occupies the right side of the board. TKL boards have become increasingly popular in recent years – take the Corsair K70 RGB TKL for example – and that's a trend I can follow.

A little extra space on your desk goes a long way towards gaming, and the overall slim design of the G915 TKL makes it appear a lot smaller than it actually is. Logitech sells a version with a number pad, but if you don't need one for hotkeys in programs like Adobe Premiere or Pro Tools, stick with the TKL model.

The design of the G915 TKL is simple but beautiful. It's a brushed aluminum plate that some buttons stick to, but it still looks better than boards like the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini.

There are mutliple reasons for this. First the RGB lighting. Even at full brightness, the lighting barely shines out of the sides of the keys, with most of the light being directed towards the top of the keycap. Second is the limited number of extra buttons that help keep it functional without leaving the deep end.

The design of the G915 TKL is simple but beautiful.

Outside the buttons, you have access to four media buttons, four function buttons and a volume wheel. The four function keys do different things. There's a brightness button that lets you toggle through five levels of brightness (including Off), as well as a game mode switch that turns off the Windows key. You can use the supplied G-Hub software to deactivate all the buttons you want in game mode.

The other two buttons are for inputs, either Logitech's own Lightspeed wireless technology or Bluetooth. You can switch seamlessly between Lightspeed and Bluetooth at the touch of a button, which is a big win for the G915. It's small enough to use on the couch with something like the Nvidia Shield, and I appreciated being able to jump back and forth without reconnecting dongles or messing around with pairing.

Function keys on the Logitech G915 TKL.Jacob Roach / Digital Trends

Logitech sells a wired version of the G915 (called the G815), but it's only slightly cheaper than the wireless version. Wireless peripherals have gotten a lot better over the past few years, and Lightspeed is an example of that. It's impossible to tell the difference between wired and wireless, even in troubled shooters like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.

The volume wheel feels great. It's made of metal and offers a smooth adjustment over the edge of the board, making quick volume changes a breeze. I just wish that the quality is transferred to the media and function keys. They are made of a soft rubber material and feel squishy. I didn't miss any input while using them, but they still don't feel good.

In addition to the keyboard, the scope of delivery also includes a Logitech micro-USB cable, the Lightspeed USB receiver and a USB range extender. Crucially, the G915 TKL lacks a palm rest, which is hard to swallow for $ 230. However, when using the G915, I didn't miss a palm rest.

I use a desk pad for my keyboard and mouse. Given the G915's slim shape – it's only 0.9 inches tall – my wrists rest comfortably on my desk pad without having to bend up. This is great in my situation, but not ideal if you don't have a desk pad. Slim palm rests only cost about $ 15, so it would have been nice to see one in the box.

Switch and power

Turns on the Logitech G915 TKL keyboard.Jacob Roach / Digital Trends

I prefer a traditional brown switch for typing because it offers the tactile feedback of a blue switch without the annoying click. The G915 TKL does not use a mechanical Cherry MX switch or one of its derivatives, but one of Logitech's GL switches, which approximates the feel of a full-size Cherry switch.

There are three options available: Clicky, Tactile or Linear, which correspond to a Cherry MX Blue, Brown or Red switch. I chose the Tactile Switch to find a balance between my daily typing and gaming. Cherry makes some low-profile switches, but not a Brown variant, which makes the Tactile switch perfect for my purposes.

I've always struggled between writing and playing, and the tactile switch compromises that I can live with. It's not as pleasant to tap as a full-sized brown switch, and the gaming experience doesn't come close to a red switch. But the balance between the two is excellent. Gaming feels better thanks to the shorter travel distance and writing still feels tactile.

The thinner profile, however, took some getting used to. The G915 itself is angled, but the keys live on a flat plane. That increases the chance of accidentally sliding up or down in a row while typing or gaming, which I did a lot when I first picked up the G915 TKL. Fortunately, after a few weeks with the keyboard, I got used to the slightly different typing experience.

Profile of the Logitech G915 TKL keyboard.Jacob Roach / Digital Trends

Although the Tactile Switch comes close to a Cherry MX Brown, it is not an exact copy. Logitech's switch is 1.5mm actuation distance, while a full size switch is 2mm apart. When you poke the key, the Logitech switch can travel up to 2.7mm while a full size switch can travel 4mm.

The greater difference takes effect. The Logitech Tactile Switch requires 60 grams of force to reach the tactile point, while a Cherry MX Brown is slightly lighter at 55 grams. It's a small change, but the added pressure makes all the difference in a low-profile design. The added power makes the tactile switch feel closer to a full size switch despite having a much smaller stroke.

The switches from Logitech hold up well against the Cherry competition.

Although the switch bears Logitech's GL branding, it actually comes from Kailh's Choc range. There are few keyboards that come with these switches and no options that I could find from big brands. However, there are more boutique boards like the Morgrie RKB 68 that they use, and this board is cheaper than the G915 TKL.

Nevertheless, the switches in the G915 have a compromise. They're not perfect for gaming or perfect for typing, but both are good enough to make a living. As long as you're ready to adjust to a slightly different typing experience, Logitech's switches hold up well against the Cherry competition.

Unfortunately, these are still Logitech switches and, like previous designs, are not compatible with other keycaps. There aren't many low profile keycaps out there right now, but it would have been nice to see additional universal support as more sets inevitably pop up.

That makes mechanical keyboards like the Roccat Vulcan TKL and Cooler Master SK630 a little more attractive – especially compared to the G915. Both keyboards use the standard cross for Cherry switches, which makes replacing the keycaps a breeze.

G-Hub software

I don't mess around with bundled keyboard software much. In most cases, I set the lighting I want and let the software quietly eat up system resources in the background. Logitech's G-Hub is different. It's functional, easy to use, and – critically – free of errors. How to make peripheral software.

Animation window in Logitech G-Hub.

The lighting is divided into three categories: presets, freestyle and animations. Presets give you access to standard RGB effects like breathing and a color wave, Freestyle lets you paint colors on any key you want, and animations allow you to create a chain of unique color changes.

Although there are other software out there with more options – Corsair iCUE in particular – G-Hub still offers a good level of customization. It's easy to use for someone who wants to set and forget about RGB while still offering various effects and animations. You can even set the lighting to match what is displayed on your screen or how an audio visualizer works.

You can also automatically synchronize the G915 with other Lightsync products from Logitech, as well as use special lighting effects in supported games. For example, you can see your ammo bar in Borderlands 3, as well as instantly see your critical keys in Final Fantasy XIV. Only a small number of games are supported, but ramping up a supported title was a nice treat.

The lights will take you to G-Hub, but that won't keep you there. You can reassign each key, set up macros and assign system functions such as copy and paste. This isn't unusual for a gaming keyboard, but G-Hub makes mapping macros feel effortless. You can quickly drag functions such as Alt + Tab from a pool onto a function key and switch between commands and macros with an optional G-Shift key.

Macro panel in the Logitech G-Hub.

When you've set everything up to your liking, you can save three macro and two lighting profiles on board and cycle through them with a key of your choice (the first four function keys by default).

Finally, you can view your battery level in G-Hub as well as your remaining battery life. Logitech rates the G915 TKL for 40 hours of use at 100% brightness (30 hours for the full version), but you get a lot more than that. The keyboard automatically goes into sleep mode after a while to save battery life when not on Your desk.

I've used the G915 TKL at 50% brightness for months, and with semi-continuous use of 10 to 12 hours a day, I usually have to charge the battery every couple of weeks. This time is significantly reduced at full brightness, but the buttons emit a lot of light even at lower brightness levels and save you a lot of battery life.

The G915 uses a micro USB cable for charging and you can continue to use the keyboard while it is charging. Although Logitech includes a micro-USB cable in the box, I would have preferred USB-C for charging. At least in my case, USB-C has become the standard on all of my devices, so I can quickly swap out a new cable if I inevitably lose the one that came with the package. With the G915 TKL, I have to dig through a stack of three-foot micro-USB cables to find one that actually extends to the connector.

However, that's proof of the G915 – I charge it so infrequently that I don't have a dedicated cable on my desk. Still, USB-C isn't all that much of a demand for a $ 230 keyboard, especially one that's still fairly new.

Our opinion

The Logitech G915 TKL is overpriced when compared to other keyboards that offer the same or a similar low-profile experience. The combination of wireless connectivity, useful media and function keys, a robust construction and error-free software makes the G915 TKL deserve its price.

It creates a balance between typing and gaming that I enjoy, and it looks amazing when it's on my desk. It takes some time to adapt to the low profile switches, but in my many months of using the G915 TKL, I've never felt the need to go back to a full-size switch.

The downside is, like other Logitech peripherals, you don't have options for third-party accessories. As someone who likes to swap out keycaps and experiment with different switches, I know that the G915 TKL will lie dormant in my keyboard graveyard at some point. It hasn't got there yet, however, and that's a good sign.

Are there alternatives?

Yes, but not much. The Roccat Vulcan TKL and Cooler Master Cooler Master SK630 are both cheaper low-profile alternatives, although they don't have WiFi and use different switches. The G915 is quite unique in its combination of switches and wireless technology, but there are boutique options that use the same switches with a cord.

How long it will take?

Logitech's GL switches are designed for 50 million actuations. The number of keystrokes depends, of course, on how often you use your keyboard. With general use, the G915 will last for several decades and even then it could still have a little life.

Should you buy it?

Yes, but look for it on offer. The G915 has some obvious flaws and is incompatible with most mechanical keyboard accessories. It's a fantastic low-profile option, but Logitech can charge a steep price considering how few real competitors there are in this category.

Editor's recommendations



21 Jan
Blog

Logitech Circle View Wired Doorbell Review: It’s Very Apple

Circle view doorbell mounted on brick.

Logitech Circle View doorbell

"This is a great video doorbell if you're a die-hard Apple."

  • Neat integration with other smart home devices

  • Good color night vision

  • Light sensor with readable interface

  • face recognition

  • Not at all compatible with Android

  • Additional hardware and subscription requirements

When Apple announced HomeKit Secure Video, manufacturers took the opportunity to deliver hardware for the Apple home ecosystem. We have one of the first video doorbells, the Logitech Circle View Wired Doorbell. This video doorbell was specially developed for Apple. You will immediately notice that it will not connect to Android at all. That has to be the first thing you know about that doorbell.

The second thing you need to know is that you will need additional Apple hardware and a monthly iCloud subscription for the doorbell to work at its fullest. In addition to having an Apple Hub or AppleTV or iPad as a hub, you'll also need to subscribe to Apple's iCloud plan with 200GB or 2TB (for $ 3 / month and $ 10 / month, respectively) so the doorbell does not collect records Counted towards your iCloud storage space.

In short, you need to be all-in with Apple for this doorbell to be of any use to you. If you've read this far, you are probably all there so we can move on. If you are an Android person, this video doorbell won't work for you at all. You can go ahead and stop reading. I'm assuming anyone reading past this point is either a die-hard Apple fan or my editor (hi, boss!).

Appleness extends into the hardware

Once you're beyond that, we can begin examining the doorbell ourselves. The hardware is a study in overengineering. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or a bad thing to be completely honest. Maybe I'm not pecking here, but even the way Logitech handles the wiring is a bit strange. On the back of the doorbell housing, slide the doorbell wires into slots that "grab" the wires rather than just using screws as you may be used to. When connecting the power converter, Logitech includes clips that you use to connect the power converter to the transformer. Neither of these are bad, in fact it makes for a very clean experience, but it just felt a little over the top. There is nothing wrong with wire nuts and screws. These other methods aren't better or worse, they're just very Apple.

Logitech Circle View Wired doorbell merrily on brickDigital trends / Adam Doud

The video doorbell hardware looks a bit simple. It's a black rectangle on which (from top to bottom) the camera is located, a light for night vision, motion and light sensors, an LED notification light, the doorbell button with a ring of light so people know where to press and finally a little branding. The doorbell is 4.68 cm high and 1.65 cm wide on the larger side. It also comes with an angled bracket if you want to turn the doorbell 15 degrees to the side.

I am particularly impressed with the color night vision capability.

The camera itself has a field of view with a diagonal of 160 degrees and has excellent night vision functions even without the 4,000K LED light strip. The camera does not use IR night vision, but rather a pithy night vision that is grainy but otherwise clear even on a particularly dark night. I set the doorbell on my back door so it didn't even have the luxury of my front yard light to help, and the image was still pretty good, although it wasn't good enough for facial recognition, which we'll investigate further in a little bit .

The camera also has a motion sensor and a light sensor that measures the ambient light in lux. This is really neat as I can tell at a glance at the doorbell if there is enough light outside to take photos or videos. The software doesn't take full advantage of these sensors, however, which we'll explore below.

The wiring is a clean doorbell experience.Adam Doud / Digital Trends

With negatives, the camera suffers from a fish-eye effect on the periphery of the camera. The LED strip on the doorbell has an on and off setting, but no automatic setting. Given the doorbell has a motion sensor and a light sensor, it seems ridiculous that you can't configure the light to turn on when the sensor detects motion and the light is below a certain threshold. However, this is a software glitch, and not the only one.

The software is very Apple

Once you've set up a Home Hub and have an iCloud subscription, open the doorbell features. In particular, you can have the activities for recording the doorbell carried out, e.g. B. Motion detection, doorbell ringing, etc. If you don't have a hub, you're only limited to one live stream. I honestly don't see the need for a home hub to easily capture and store video. If I only had an iPhone, I could still watch motion event videos. This is a blatant platform lock-in and a little gross. Other doorbells require subscriptions to record video, so I'll barely forgive Apple's iCloud request.

It's also noteworthy that if you want to stream video from the camera, every device that acts as a hub must be turned on. Most of the time this isn't a problem, but if you ever need to turn off your iPad, your doorbell will ring. This again supports the argument that using an iPhone I can stream data to it without the need for a device in between. Not cool.

The Logitech Circle View doorbell CAmera uses color night vision.

Other aspects of Apple software are standard on other doorbell interfaces. Scrubbing through events is a little shaky as you can only view events that detect motion or people. However, you have to drag your finger from event to event, and getting to the beginning of an event is a little difficult. However, sharing and saving videos is easy with Apple's share menu.

With Apple, you can also use the sensors in the doorbell to trigger other events in your house. For example, if you want a specific light in your house to turn on when your doorbell senses movement, you can do that. This is a very smart integration that really makes a smart home.

This doorbell is one of the first ones I tested that offers facial recognition that really works. The implementation is not the best. Apple uses your photo library to identify people who ring the doorbell. So, if you've had an iPhone for a long time, you have a lot of people in your photo library. If you're like me and only use Apple products occasionally, this won't work as well. But just the fact that it works at all is very cool. Given the number of doorbells I've tested that I'd love to access Google Photos if they only asked for it, this was a breath of fresh air. Unfortunately, my photo library can only accurately identify me and my children. Fortunately, you can add the names of new faces as they appear. This comes in handy the longer you use the doorbell.

Our opinion

Overall, this is a really nice video doorbell – if you're a die-hard Apple fan. If you are not, this is not a good doorbell at all. We already established that by the time you've read this far, it is you. Yes, this is a very nice doorbell that is specially made for you and your existing ecosystem. The field of view is pretty good, although it's not the 180 degrees you get from the Vivint Video Doorbell Pro. Plus, the video quality is good even at night, similar to the HomeHawk window I checked a few months ago. I really like the access Apple gives to the motion and light sensors. Other doorbells have these sensors, but Apple lets you use them, which is pretty neat.

Is there a better alternative?

From a holistic standpoint, this video doorbell is just as good in everything out there. I am particularly impressed with the color night vision capability. While infrared-based night vision can produce brighter and clearer results even on a cheap doorbell like the Wyze video doorbell, I prefer colored night vision because it allows you to better visualize what is actually outside your door. There are also three more doorbells that HomeKit support, including offerings from Netatmo, Robin, and Yobi.

Will it take?

This doorbell is very well built, albeit made of plastic. It's not made from the most durable building materials any doorbell I've tested. That honor likely goes to the Nest Hello doorbell. That being said, I have no concerns about long-term profitability. The doorbell is designed for operation at -20 to 40 degrees Celsius. There is a one year limited warranty.

Should I buy it?

If you've read this far, you're a die-hard Apple. Yes, you should buy it. The integration with the Apple ecosystem is pretty powerful, and using those sensors on the doorbell to trigger other smart home events has really good potential. The $ 199 MSRP is right in the wheelhouse of other doorbells like the Eufy Security Doorbell. After all, the software, Apple's Home Kit, is far more secure than Ring Video Doorbell 3.

Editor's recommendations




08 Jun
Blog

Logitech Circle View Review: All About Privacy

Logitech Circle View on the edge

"This exclusive HomeKit camera attaches great importance to privacy from the inside out."

  • No additional app download required

  • The electronic lock helps protect privacy

  • Designed to work indoors and outdoors

  • Easy setup

  • A paid iCloud subscription is required to save videos

  • Expensive costs for basic security functions

I've been tracking Logitech security cameras from the start, starting with the original Logitech Circle in 2015, followed by its successor with Logitech Circle 2 in 2017. I enjoyed the plethora of accessories that the Circle 2 used as an indoor surveillance camera for the outside area as well as the "Day Brief" mode, in which clips were put together for a time-lapse overview.

With the introduction of the third generation model, the Logitech Circle View, these functions were dissolved. Instead, there is a big focus on privacy. The camera is even available exclusively for Apple's HomeKit smart home platform. Data protection is a hot topic among surveillance cameras today more than ever. Is the new Logitech camera enough?

You don't have to download an app

When setting up the circle view, I immediately noticed that no additional app had to be downloaded. Everything is done through the iOS Home app, so you don't have to register a new account or download an app – much like any other camera.

HomeKit optimizes the setup process. This is a stroke of luck for anyone who is not tech-savvy. After a few simple steps, scanning a QR code and choosing a routine, the circle view was ready to monitor my apartment. In a way, it is strange not having to download an app, but the obvious advantages of HomeKit's exclusivity are that it uses all of the camera's privacy features.

In comparison, setting up the ring cameras is a bit more complex, also because you have to download an app and register a new account. Who would like to remember a password? I am happy to just unlock my smartphone and use a native app. With Google’s Nest cameras, you’ll also need to download another app to sign in to your Google Account. Of course, it is convenient to use your Google account, so you need one less password to remember. However, you still need to download a separate app to access the camera.

Emphasis on privacy

Ring's problems have certainly changed the way people look at surveillance cameras at home, but we're beginning to see proactive measures to address the issue during the development phase – and Logitech Circle View is one of them. Appropriate measures are taken to address concerns. This is a relief as privacy is a top priority.

First, there is a button on the back of the camera that can effectively cut audio and video. This is useful if you are still paranoid that someone is watching on the other end. The disadvantage of this data protection lock, however, is that you cannot remotely turn on the camera with the home app. This is a useful feature for those who are concerned about privacy. Logitech takes an extra step by designing the camera to tilt all the way down to point to the base.

Logitech circle view down

Logitech Circle View rear privacy button

Second, thanks to the support of HomeKit Secure Video, the camera saves recorded footage in your iCloud account. However, you must adhere to Apple's 200GB iCloud plan. That means you have to subscribe to the $ 3 monthly plan. Unfortunately, the free 50GB plans for 5GB and $ 0.99 per month do not support video cloud storage, but you can still access a livestream and have two-way audio. Since the encrypted footage is stored in iCloud, there is little concern that a third party can view it. including Apple.

Designed for inside and outside

With the redesign of the camera, the Circle View does not support the multitude of accessories that the predecessor was able to provide. I really enjoyed how the Circle 2 transformed from a stationary camera into something that can be plugged in, attached to a window, or even battery operated. Nevertheless, the design of the Circle View with its metal base and matt surface gets a higher quality construction. It is a nice looking camera.

It is frankly a good looking camera.

It also helps that it can be used indoors and outdoors thanks to its IP64 degree of protection. The only challenge when mounting outdoors is to find a nearby outlet because the attached power cord is 10 feet long. Speaking of which, the cable cannot be detached from the camera because it is integrated. I prefer a micro USB or USB-C connector for the power supply, but it makes sense to integrate the cable for weather resistance.

Data protection comes at the price of functions

I welcome the camera's focus on privacy. Compared to its contemporaries, however, the Logitech Circle View lacks some urgently needed functions.

As a surveillance camera, the 1080p clips are sharp, filled with solid details and the colors are displayed precisely. It helps that the field of view is 180 degrees, which ensures adequate coverage, but there is a noticeable fish-eye effect. In poor lighting conditions, the quality of the film material becomes softer, but this is typical. When it is completely dark, the infrared sensors snap into place to illuminate areas up to 15 feet away. For small apartments (like mine) it is sufficient. It does, however, follow the range of other cameras, such as the 20-foot range of Nest cameras.

There are controls in the Home app that let you choose what type of motion the camera should detect. This includes people, animals and even vehicles. However, some of the more advanced features we get in other cameras are missing, such as: B. Zone detection and face detection. I would very much have liked the ability to select zones in camera view to monitor motion just because it helps reduce the number of notifications sent to my iPhone. Many budget cams actually have this feature, like the Wyze Cam V2 for $ 20 and the Blink Mini for $ 35. This is mainly due to the fact that HomeKit does not support this feature, but an update to the platform may finally bring it.

A relief to know that privacy is top priority!

I'm also excited to see how the camera can be used with other devices supported by HomeKit to improve its functionality through automation. For example, it is wonderful that there is an option to automatically turn off the circle view when it detects that I am at home (via the GPS location of my iPhone), but I also want it to work in conjunction with another gadget , maybe a smart lock to automatically record footage when the door is opened or closed.

Our opinion

If privacy is a top priority in your list for a surveillance camera, the Logitech Circle View is an excellent choice. For Apple users, this is one of the few options currently available on the market that support HomeKit.

Security camera privacy scorecard
Logitech circle view
2-factor authentication X.
Mandatory 2-factor
Privacy lock X.
Local memory
App lock
Detection zones
face recognition X.

Is there a better alternative?

The $ 160 price for the Logitech Circle View is expensive when compared to some of its direct competitors. Take EufyCam 2, for example. In addition to HomeKit, it also supports Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant with a recent firmware upgrade. Although it costs $ 220 more, you get two cameras instead of a single while offering local storage.

At the other end of the spectrum, the Ring Indoor Cam is a balanced $ 60 surveillance camera that has received some new data protection features and can be integrated with other Ring products for a more comprehensive security solution. If you're on a serious budget, the Wyze Cam V2 is an excellent budget offer for $ 20 and doesn't skimp on features.

Do you want more options? Check out our favorite smart home surveillance cameras.

How long it will take?

Thanks to its solid construction, high-quality materials and protection class IP64, the Logitech Circle View does not give the impression that it will soon go bad. In this rare case, however, a one-year limited warranty applies.

Should you buy it

Yes, especially if the setup is a breeze, you don't need to install another app and data protection is paramount.

Editor's recommendations




01 Jun
Blog

Logitech Combo Touch Review: An Awesome Keyboard Case

Logitech Combo Touch

"The Logitech Combo Touch is certainly the best keyboard case for mid-range iPad models."

  • Excellent protection

  • The keyboard feels great

  • Good touchpad

  • Affordable price

The iPad is now a laptop. Whether it's a good alternative is up for debate, but with the right accessories, it's now possible to drop an old school clamshell for the best tablet in the world. Apple's own Magic Keyboard is a good choice if you have a recent iPad Pro. However, if you need a full keyboard and touchpad for another iPad model, you'll need to look elsewhere.

Logitech's Combo Touch is at the top of your list. It is the only keyboard case with a touchpad that supports the iPad Pro 10.5-inch, the iPad Air and the iPad of the 7th generation. The price is also around $ 150. This undercuts most third-party iPad keyboards with a touchpad, such as For example, the $ 200 Brydge Pro +.

As a result, the Logitech Combo Touch becomes the standard choice for some iPad owners. It's a good thing he's excellent.

Function over form

The Logitech combo touch doesn't fit the shape you'd expect from an Apple accessory. Third parties who develop products that work with Apple's popular devices often try to mimic Apple's appearance. Not here. Instead, Logitech offers a chunky, playful shell that focuses on ease of use. This corresponds to other current Apple accessories from Logitech, such as the Crayon pen and the Pebble i345 mouse.

I tested the Logitech Combo Touch with my iPad Pro 10.5 inch. This model also fits the 3rd generation iPad Air (owners of a 7th generation iPad have to buy a version that is specific to their device, but only slightly different in thickness).

You would have to push the thing straight up to do damage.

Although I didn't flip my iPad around to see if it survived, I'm confident with the Combo Touch on my iPad. This thing is a Thicc Boi, which has a lot of padding on each side and a clearly raised lip around the iPad display. With the keyboard cover that protects the display closed, you must push the object straight up to cause damage.

It has a non-slip fabric surface on the front and back of the iPad that prevents the tablet from jumping out of your hand.

Logitech Combo Touch outsideMatthew S. Smith / Digital Trends

The disadvantage of this protection is that it increases the weight. The Logitech Combo Touch weighs a total of 21 ounces. That's over a pound! The device connected to my iPad Pro 10.5-inch brought the total weight of the device to 29 ounces without the keyboard cover attached. This makes the full unit a whopping 40 ounces. That's 2.5 pounds.

I don't think weight is a problem for the trip. My iPad is still light with the Combo Touch attached and still fits in any backpack or shoulder bag. The real problem is using tablets, as this case almost doubles the weight of my iPad and makes it more tiring to use when holding it.

The Combo Touch didn't bother buttons or connections – a surprise given its size. I had no problems accessing the flash or headphone jack on my iPad and the volume buttons kept working. You might have problems if you have a device with a particularly large connector – I've seen some powerful 3.5mm jacks on high-end headphones – but none of my devices had a problem.

In this case the combo touch is mixed. The mass can be annoying, but is not without advantages. That's why I only removed my iPad Pro from the case once (and returned it soon). The combo touch case offers excellent protection and makes it easier to hold the iPad Pro with one or both hands.

The keyboard is much better than you think

I wasn't sure what to expect from the combo touch keyboard. I've been checking laptops long enough to remember the netbook era, and these tiny PCs left a distinctly sour impression on my cramped hands. While the Combo Touch offers more volume, the overall package is slightly smaller than most netbooks I've used.

Surprisingly, the combo touch is comfortable. Logitech only has one hair that more than 10 inches of iPad can work with, but the company uses every inch with a borderless button layout. No space is wasted here. The keyboard is backlit and is powered by the iPad via the Smart Connector.

Logitech combo touch keyboardMatthew S. Smith / Digital Trends

A spacious layout is supported by clicking buttons that feel great. I prefer to use the combo touch than the butterfly switch keyboard of older MacBooks. In short, don't worry about the keyboard. You will have no problem with that.

The touchpad is not that impressive, although it is known whether you own an inexpensive laptop or have ever used it. There is enough space for comfortable use and the surface responds. However, it's made of plastic, so it lacks the silky smooth feel you find on Apple's Magic Keyboard and Apple's MacBook laptops.

A stand is integrated in the housing part of the Combo Touch and is available even when the keyboard is not connected. The wide and sturdy stand made an admirable contribution to keeping my iPad on my lap. I was never afraid that the iPad could slide off or fold backwards.

It is worth noting that iPadOS supports the keyboard and the touchpad. You will find a number of function keys that provide easy access to various iPad functions. The touchpad allows you to perform multi-touch gestures that you would otherwise do on the iPad's touchscreen. Logitech's Combo Touch is a third-party accessory, but the integration between it and the iPad feels top-notch.

There's even a loop for storing your Apple Pencil or Logitech Crayon pen, although I don't have one either.

An affordable laptop alternative?

The Logitech Combo Touch keyboard and touchpad last up to hours. With the recently added full cursor support for iPadOS, you can perform many tasks that were once reserved for laptops. Does that mean you can buy this case for your current iPad and throw your laptop completely overboard?

Could be. It is certainly possible, but the answer is personal and depends on your willingness to change your workflow.

Can you buy this case for your current iPad and get rid of your laptop completely? Could be.

The Combo Touch offers advantages for the iPad. The display is smaller than most laptops, but it's bright, attractive, and you can touch it. Depending on the task, you can easily switch between using the iPad as a tablet or laptop. Traveling is a snap, whether you run 5 miles or fly 500.

The iOS ecosystem also doesn't have a big disadvantage – on the contrary, many apps now feel faster and more fluid than their PC or Mac counterparts. Thanks to its display and the reasonably powerful GPU, the iPad is undoubtedly better in terms of entertainment than any inexpensive notebook.

Logitech Combo Touch caseMatthew S. Smith / Digital Trends

It is not all good news. Despite its advantages and new multitasking functions, iPadOS is not suitable for situations in which you open several apps and work side by side or have to switch frequently between them. Since iPad apps are touch-first apps, they cannot make optimal use of the iPad's limited display area.

There are even some persistent issues with web-based apps that can be picky on iPad, although Safari doesn't provide mobile versions of websites by default. Web-based WordPress is still a sore point. The app is fine, but it doesn't work with every WordPress implementation.

I can say the following with certainty: An iPad, iPad Air or iPad Pro 10.5 inch in combination with the Combo Touch becomes a perfectly usable laptop replacement. Whether you prefer is a more personal decision, but it can absolutely work.

Our opinion

The Logitech Combo Touch is a great accessory and a bargain price of $ 150. If you have an iPad that is compatible with this case, stop your search. This is the iPad keyboard case to buy.

Is there a better alternative?

The Apple Magic Keyboard is better overall, has a more professional and sophisticated design, but is only available for the latest iPad Pro models (which are not supported by the Combo Touch) and is significantly more expensive.

The Apple Smart Keyboard costs $ 160 and offers a very slim keyboard that takes up less space. However, it was developed before the iPadOS mouse was supported, so there is no touchpad. The Logitech combo touch flips him.

Brydge offers a variety of alternatives, but does not have a keyboard cover with a touchpad for iPad (7th generation), iPad Air or iPad Pro 10.5 inches. This also makes the Combo Touch a better choice.

Do you want more options? Check out our favorite iPad keyboard cases.

How long it will take?

The Logitech Combo Touch lasts for many years. There is no built-in battery that could deteriorate over time, and its durable construction is suitable for rough use. The only threat is water, as the Combo Touch is not designed for water resistance.

Should you buy it

Yes. The Logitech Combo Touch is an excellent keyboard case that you should choose for the supported iPad models.

Editor's recommendations




16 Feb
Blog

Logitech Ergo K860 Review: The Most Comfortable Keyboard Ever?

logiech ergo k860 review logitech keyboard 06

Logitech Ergo K860 review: the most convenient keyboard you can buy

"With its unique shape and padded palm rest, the Logitech Ergo K860 is an extremely comfortable ergonomic keyboard."

  • Adjustable palm lift

  • Comfortable keycaps

  • Lots of wrist support

  • Attractive design

  • Can connect to multiple devices

  • Not backlit

  • Non-rechargeable

Logitech has a tradition of making super comfortable and well designed products. Both the MX Ergo and the MX Vertical have a cozy design to reduce muscle fatigue as you scroll and drag yourself through your workday. With the new Logitech Ergo K860, some of these elements are now on a keyboard.

At $ 130, the Logitech Ergo K860 completes Logitech's Ergo range. But it is not an ordinary economic keyboard. Be it the unique curvy design and ergonomics or the cozy palm rest, the K860 is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable keyboards you can buy.

It's all in the curve

At first glance, you know why the Logitech K860 is not your traditional ergonomic keyboard. Instead of lying flat on your desk like the Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard, the Logitech K860 has a slight elevation and curvature on both the front and the back. Logitech calls this a "split curved keyframe".

This name seems strange, but you have to see the keyboard to believe it. The K860 floats off the desk and invites you to play with it. Unlike the Kinesis Freestyle2, this is not a medical or industrial looking keyboard. Apart from a single power switch on the top, there are no additional cables or unnecessary switches here.

You will also find that it is made entirely of plastic and carries a metal plate under the top layer. Although this keyboard is curved and made of plastic, it is solid and comfortable, and there is a good reason for it.

Not only can you slide your cell phone cables or chargers under the keyboard, but the curve and height also allow more comfort when typing. It is designed to help you put your wrists in a more neutral position. It also helps reduce stress on your wrists and forearm, and keeps your hands, neck, and shoulders more relaxed while typing.

This is something Logitech has put a lot of effort into. The company informed me that there was a research and development laboratory in which up to 40 different prototypes of this keyboard were developed and in which actual people were invited to test the products. These people were even connected to sensors that measured muscle strain and pressure.

According to Logitech, 15% of computer users feel pain every day and the K860 offers up to 54% more wrist support than traditional keyboards. This statistic was particularly troubling for me, a person who spends the whole day at my desk typing and scrolling with the mouse. It is definitely convenient. When I used the Logitech MX Keys as a daily driver, I was curious how this ergonomic keyboard could also improve my typing experience.

Enter a storm on any device you own

Admittedly, it took me some time to get used to this curvature and the new layout, in which the keys have a downward V-shape. It felt strange for a day or two, but when my fingers got used to the curve and layout, it felt natural. It forced me to become a touch typist more than normal, and I noticed that I looked less at the keyboard. In combination with the MX Vertical mouse, my daily computer tasks felt organic when my hands slid smoothly between the keyboard and mouse.

The Logitech MX Keys were one of our favorite keyboards for everyday typing, but they may have found their equivalent in the Ergo K860. The Ergo has "scooped" keycaps with a small circle in the middle of the cap that allows you to align your fingers in a more natural position. It also helps with durability. Logitech even claims the Ergo K860 is designed to last 10 million keystrokes, but these are just numbers. Is it true?

After using the Logitech K860 to cover CES 2020 from my home office, I can at least say that this keyboard is very comfortable. Thanks to the "split curved keyframe" and the design, I didn't have to keep my fingers crossed while typing. Thanks to the padded palm rest, I didn't have to pull my wrists to the side as I moved between the words.

However, this is not a mechanical keyboard. If you are looking for long trips or a click of a button, you have to look elsewhere. This is more of a laptop-class keyboard that uses rubber domes instead of mechanical switches under the keycaps. However, there are more trips here than on ultra-short keyboards like the MacBook Pro.

My average writing speed is 90 words per minute, but with the Ergo K860 I have reached almost 95 words per minute. It's a modest improvement, but it was a new record for me. It's also a quiet keyboard, which is important if you work in an open office environment and don't want to bother your employees.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Like the MX keys, this wireless keyboard is cross-platform, so you can use it with multiple devices at the same time. You can connect it to a PC via a USB dongle or use it via Bluetooth and switch between them with a key on the keyboard. I used it with both my Surface Laptop 3 and my Google Pixel 3 XL and was able to switch between PC and laptop with the push of a button and respond to texts on my phone.

The type of function keys also reflects this. As with the MX keys, there is a double "Start" and "Options" button for Mac and Windows. Above this is a series of buttons for media and function control. Brightness, apps, search, lock, battery status – you will find everything here. And the number pad is also a good measure. With Logitech, you can even customize the keyboard using the Logitech Options software, which allows you to customize the function keys.

Unfortunately, the K860 is not illuminated and is not rechargeable. Logitech tells me that this was a deliberate design decision they made. They didn't want to do without the clean keyboard design or the 2-year battery life that came with the two AAA batteries. They also believe that the keyboard is used in office environments where backlighting is less important.

It's pretty cozy

The other important element of the Ergo K860 is its wrist support. Of course, you can find them in other ergonomic keyboards like the Adesso Tru-Form 150, Matias Ergo Pro or Logitech's own K350, but the Ergo K860 goes far beyond that.

Instead of using just a single layer of foam or fabric like the palm rest, Logitech chose three layers of material. These include a high-density foam, a memory foam and an easy-to-clean, coated fabric that increases the comfort of the keyboard and its ergonomics. It surely surpasses the double-padded layer on the Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

During my time with the keyboard in my home office, I often touched her just because it felt so cozy that it was almost like a pillow on my bed. I even had an accident and spilled some water on the palm rest and it wiped off immediately.

Logitech also thinks of the modern office. The underside of the palm rest has an adjustable hinge with which you can tile the keyboard for standing or sitting desks at 4 or 7 degrees. It also helps you keep your wrist in a naturally comfortable position when you are sitting or standing.

Our opinion

The Logitech Ergo K860 for $ 130 isn't just a convenient keyboard. It is the best ergonomic keyboard we have ever used. Everything from the typing experience to the simple exchange between devices makes it an extremely modern and comfortable office tool. If you're worried about your wrists after long hours in the office, the K860 may be the keyboard for you.

Is there a better alternative?

The Logitech K860 is the best ergonomic keyboard you can buy, but there are plenty of alternatives. One of the leading options in the same $ 130 price range is the Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard, which has a similar design and palm rest, but not the "heightened" feel and compatibility of multiple devices in the K860.

You can also opt for the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Desktop, which has ergonomics similar to the Logitech, but is cheaper at around $ 100. And if backlighting is important, there's the Adesso Tru-Form 150 for $ 40.

How long it will take?

As a keyboard with USB dongle, Bluetooth, durable plastic surface with a metal layer underneath and a long battery life, the K860 holds the test of time.

Should you buy it

Yes. If you are looking for a keyboard that is extremely comfortable, the Logitech Ergo K860 is the right choice for you. It has a super comfortable wrist rest and was developed overall to relieve the pain when typing. Only the lack of backlighting and not charging prevent it from being perfect.

Editor's recommendations